An engagement ring is a symbol of affection and loyalty between two individuals getting ready to join their lives forever. Because of its full figurative meaning, the physical appearance of an engagement ring should reflect the event’s metaphorical significance. For this reason, a groom’s choice of an engagement ring should encompass which cut is best for his fiancée, as this determines the brilliance and shape of the gemstone set in the ring. Perhaps nothing is more fitting for two lovers signifying their upcoming betrothal than a heart engagement ring cut, since this shape is the age-old symbol of love and romance.
This design is similar to the pear shape except that is incised with a small cleft at the top centre of its surface. In the heart shape, it is the dexterity and precision of the cutter which ultimately determines the stone’s beauty. No other cut requires as much skill in its formulation. The standard number of facets in this design is 59, but many have a varying number of pavilion (lower) facets ranging from 4, 6, 7 or 8.
The heart shape is a great way to make a distinction between your engagement ring cut and other popular ones while still retaining exceptional brilliance and fire in your stone. Traditionally, they are presented with proposals occurring on Valentine’s Day, but they are also popular for other pieces of jewellery like necklaces, bracelets and earrings.
In a heart-shaped gemstone, it is important to be certain of the overall quality of the jewel. Buyers should avoid gems which are cut in too flat a manner as this always dulls brilliance. On the other hand, a properly shaped heart will enhance the radiance and sparkle of any gem.
Most heart-shapes are cut at a 1.00 ratio, or approximately at a 0.90 to 1.10 (almost square), as these proportions of length to width are the most pleasing to the eye and allow for the most amount of light to reflect through the stone. A heart engagement ring cut can also be designed to be slightly longer than wide, with a ratio of 1.10 or 1.20. This proportion will always compromise radiance and sparkle, so be sure that this more slender figure is a resolute matter of personal preference.
It is recommended that buyers look for a stout jewel with a precise outline and even shoulders. Buyers should also seek a gem which has a minimum colour of G and clarity of SI1. These features will display the ideal brilliance and fire in any engagement ring cut. Buyers on a more modest budget still seeking this shape should look for a gemstone with a minimum colour of H and clarity of SI2.